When we think about terrorism in society, the connotations that spring to mind may be large scale attacks in European cities and religious cults and movements, but the reality is that it can unfortunately be a lot closer to home (or business) than you think, writes Paul Ritchie, pictured, MD at Foremost Security.
For businesses, the subject can often be overlooked or dismissed as an ‘unlikely scenario’. What must be highlighted is that vigilance and awareness is key in situations surrounding this topic. If you suspect something out of the ordinary, then do not remain quiet, report it. It may be that you have seen someone unfamiliar circling your premises a few times, or a suspicious van slowing down outside a few days in a row. Take action and report it.
In terms of preparation, there isn’t a great deal you can do. But what you can do, is remain alert and keep your eyes open at all times. After all, an attack on your business could result in casualties, business interruption and property damage, not to mention serious damage to your company brand, image and reputation.
Unfortunately, some businesses are more at risk than others. Those dealing with government information or who have connections to the government can always be at a more substantial threat. Most prevalent is often cyber crime and cyberterrorism. Both of which are unfortunately on the rise. Simply, this involves the use of the internet to conduct acts that may not directly result in or threaten the loss of life or significant bodily harm, but attempt to achieve financial or political gains through blackmail, threats and intimidation.
The UK Government states: “In the 21st century, one of the greatest threats to a company or organisation is from cyber-attacks. The effects can often be devastating: the loss of crucial data, or a reduction in operating efficiency, or even closure.”
Because of the nature of these businesses, any political constituency office is more likely to be subject to a threat from extreme organisations and cyber criminals and this makes security difficult. However, constituency offices use security providers who are members of and accredited by IPSA (the International Professional Security Association), to ensure they receive the most reliable and effective security services.
With attacks on MPs offices on the rise, and the fatal attack on MP Jo Cox last year, there is a definite need for high-end security in this sector. Cox was fatally shot and stabbed outside a library in Birstall, West Yorkshire, where she was about to hold a constituency surgery at 1pm, just a week before the EU referendum. Following the attack, the House of Commons re-issued security guidance to MPs and urged them to call the police if they have security concerns.
In terms of combatting terrorism, Project Griffin, produced by the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, is the national counter terrorism awareness initiative for business, to protect our cities and communities from the threat of terrorism. The aim of the project is to help understand the threat from terrorism to the UK, and to guide individuals on what to do if they find themselves involved in a terrorist incident or event that leads up to a planned attack. It also enables people to recognise and report suspicious activity. You can read more at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/project-griffin/project-griffin.
About the writer
Paul Ritchie is MD at Foremost Security, based in Nottingham. Visit www.foremost-security.co.uk, email [email protected].
